Tag Archives: benefits

Katie Graham Anderson So we all know the benefits of breastfeeding. Let’s talk about the risks, shall we? 1. Risk of a harassment from perfect strangers. Often with sexual overtones. 2. The violation of the right to breastfeed where ever a woman might lawfully be by an employee of a given establishment, including being asked to cover up, asked to …

Babywearing as the Biological Norm My focus as a mother supporter, aka doula, is with the needs of the mother. For when we address the needs of the mother we by default address the needs of the baby. So what is in a sling for the mother? Many years ago a history professor made an off the cuff remark …

If you’re pregnant and haven’t been living in a cave for the past year, you’ve probably heard about Zika. Chances are you’ve been concerned (okay, more like worried sick) about it. Almost all the news about Zika is bad, but there are a few (sort of positive) things to keep in mind: not all mosquitoes carry the virus (only females …

One in every 641 babies is born with Down syndrome, making it the world’s most common major genetic condition. Nursing the baby with Down syndrome can be challenging, but with patience and persistence and as the baby grows in strength and muscle tone, breastfeeding often gets easier. In the meantime, both you and your baby can enjoy all the special …

Ask Anne… I currently have a wonderful nursing relationship with my seven-month old son. People are starting to ask me how long I plan to breastfeed. To be honest, I don’t know how long I plan to nurse. My question is, what are the benefits of breastfeeding more than a year? I understand the benefits of nursing your baby until …

Anne Smith, IBCLC July 6, 2016Comments Off on Is it safe for nursing moms to scoop cat litter?

Ask Anne… Question: I know that during pregnancy I was not supposed to scoop cat litter. How about while breastfeeding? Is it dangerous? Should I get rid of my cat? Answer: The concern about cleaning out litter boxes is the transmission of a nasty parasite called ‘toxoplasma gondii’. You don’t need to get rid of your family pet, but you do need …

Breastfeeding a toddler is no joke and it’s not for everyone, but those of us who find ourselves doing it have a hard time understanding all the uproar. Breastfeeding works for everything. Why would I give up my sure-fire solution to every problem before we are ready? My boobs are like ninja warriors protecting peace on earth. Fall Down Go …

Anne Smith, IBCLC January 20, 2015Comments Off on How long does my baby need to nurse in order to receive the benefits of breastmilk?

Ask Anne… Question: How long do you need to nurse in order for your baby to receive the brain-growth and immunological benefits of breast milk? And, though I’m sure it varies widely from mom to mom, how seldom can you nurse and still maintain a milk supply? Is it possible to maintain a steady-state of milk, or does the supply gradually, …